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Telescope Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NSF's NOIRLab

Electrical Technician 4

Hilo, HI · On-site

... telescope electrical systems that enable world-class astronomical research at the Gemini ... Job Level Summary The Electrical Technician provides technical support with maintaining, operating ...

NOAO

Electrical Technician 4

Hilo, HI

... telescope electrical systems that enable world-class astronomical research at the Gemini ... Job Level Summary The Electrical Technician provides technical support with maintaining, operating ...

NOIRLab

Electrical Technician 4

Hilo, HI · On-site

... telescope electrical systems that enable world-class astronomical research at the Gemini ... The Electrical Technician provides technical support with maintaining, operating, repairing, and ...

AURA

Electrical Technician 4

Hilo, HI · On-site

... telescope electrical systems that enable world-class astronomical research at the Gemini ... Job Level Summary The Electrical Technician provides technical support with maintaining, operating ...

Bay

Crane Operator Heavy1 West Texas

Midland, TX · On-site

Crane Operator Heavy The Crane Operator Heavy is responsible for operating a mobile or stationary ... Operate specialized machinery such as telescope booms, lattice booms, all terrain, Rough Terrain ...

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$9

$27

$83

How much do telescope operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for telescope operator in the United States is $27.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Telescope Operators on the job?

Telescope Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise alignment of complex equipment, troubleshooting technical issues during observation sessions, and adapting quickly to changing weather conditions that can affect data quality. They may also need to coordinate closely with astronomers and research teams to adjust observation schedules or prioritize specific projects. Flexibility, patience, and technical proficiency help operators manage these obstacles while ensuring that valuable astronomical data is captured accurately and efficiently during narrow observation windows.

What is a Telescope Operator job?

A Telescope Operator is responsible for controlling and maintaining telescopes at observatories or research facilities. They ensure the proper functioning of the equipment, assist astronomers in capturing observations, and troubleshoot technical issues. Their duties may also include monitoring environmental conditions, calibrating instruments, and managing data collection. Telescope Operators typically work in collaboration with scientists, engineers, and technicians to support astronomical research. The role requires technical proficiency, attention to detail, and often a background in physics, astronomy, or engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Telescope Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Telescope Operator, you need solid knowledge of astronomy, experience with optical and digital imaging systems, and typically a degree in physics, astronomy, or a related field. Familiarity with telescope control software, data acquisition systems, and sometimes certifications in advanced equipment handling are highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are key soft skills in this role. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring precise observations, equipment safety, and successful collaboration with scientists and technical staff.

How much do telescope operators make?

Telescope operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment they operate. Many positions require technical skills and certifications, and work may involve night shifts or irregular hours.
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Telescope Operator jobs near you

Electrical Technician 4

NSF's NOIRLab

Hilo, HI • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

The NSF NOIRLab is the preeminent US national center for ground-based, nighttime optical and infrared astronomy. NOIRLab is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) which operates as a matrix organization, providing services across a range of programs: Gemini, Rubin, MSO (CTIO and KPNO), and CSDC; with facilities in three geographic locations: Arizona, Chile and Hawai'i. The mission of NOIRLab is to enable breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics by developing and operating state-of-the-art ground-based observatories and providing data products and services.
The NSF NOIRLab is hiring for an electrical technician, working primarily at our summit facility on Maunakea, and occasionally at our base facility in Hilo. The electrical technician will play a vital role in maintaining, supporting, and enhancing the sophisticated facilities and telescope electrical systems that enable world-class astronomical research at the Gemini Observatory on Maunakea.
The position is available at various levels, depending on the successful candidate's experience, education, and demonstrated ability. All technicians work in a collaborative, team-based environment supporting observatory operations and maintenance.
Job Level Summary
The Electrical Technician provides technical support with maintaining, operating, repairing, and upgrading telescopes, instruments and observatory electrical and related systems and carries out their work duties in a collaborative and team-based environment.
The Electrical Technician is expected to support other team members in adjacent fields, such as electronics and mechanics.
Essential Functions:
  • Maintain, operate and repair telescopes, instruments and observatory electrical systems, and support development and upgrade projects aimed to improve the observatory's performance with no supervision.
  • Assemble and troubleshoot electrical components such as wiring, cables including conduits, electrical panels and its protections and power distribution systems to the telescope and instruments.
  • Utilize and maintain test equipment and keep certifications updated.
  • Perform daily checks of observatory power network conditions with no supervision
  • Perform generator and UPS safety walk through inspections with no supervision
  • Perform operation and maintenance of the fire alarm system with no supervision
  • Perform periodic maintenance performance checks of electrical systems and issue regular performance reports
  • Create, modify, and update documentation of telescope and instrument electrical systems
  • Purchase materials, supplies and equipment for the different laboratories used by the Electronics group and maintain them in good working order
  • Identify and order proper spares and components for telescope and instrument electrical systems and keep track of inventory lists
  • Create safety documentation such as Job Hazard Analysis, LOTO, and work procedures as necessary.
  • Collaborate with and work cooperatively with other staff, including cross training individuals when necessary. Supervise the work of other electrical technicians (if any)
  • Operate equipment as necessary, maintaining written and/or electronic records, maintain tools, maintain clean and organized shared spaces and common areas, and provide general assistance to other staff members as required or requested
  • Comply with applicable safety standards, procedures and practices and ensure safety of operations in areas under purview; correct and/or report unsafe conditions and practices.
  • All AURA employees are responsible for the proper management and control of all AURA property within their work area, whether assigned to them or someone else. This responsibility includes reporting any known missing, stolen, or non-working property in their work area to their supervisor or the AURA Property Officer.
  • Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position.

Other Functions:
  • Other duties as assigned
Required Education and Experience:
  • Degree in Electrical/Electronics technology (at least 2 year study program)
  • 5+ years of relevant professional experience in electrical technology
  • Journey Worker electrician (EJ) Hawaii certification
  • Able to perform work with no supervision
  • Possess basic knowledge of electronic principles and theory and practical knowledge and understanding of electrical and electronic circuits
  • Able to read blueprints, sketches and other drawings specifying job requirements
  • Possess basic mechanical skills and be able to properly use basic hand tools
  • Knowledge of PC based computer programs.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License; clean driving record; ability to drive a 4-wheel drive
Preferred qualifications:
  • Degree in Electrical/Electronics technology (at least 2 year study program)
  • 7+ years of relevant professional experience in electrical technology including experience leading teams
  • Journey Worker Industrial electrician (EJI) Hawaii certification
  • Able to supervise and direct other technicians
  • Experienced with large industrial equipment (generator, UPS, 3-phase motors, HVAC)
  • Possess basic knowledge of electronic principles and theory and practical knowledge and understanding of electrical and electronic circuits
  • Able to read blueprints, sketches and other drawings specifying job requirements
  • Possess basic mechanical skills and be able to properly use basic hand tools
  • Knowledge of PC based computer programs.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License; clean driving record; ability to drive a 4-wheel drive
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
  • Constant need to move about inside the office environment to move objects, service machinery, and conduct maintenance services.
  • Occasionally operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
  • Constant need to position self to maintain building-specific machinery (including boilers) as well as general office tools.
  • Frequently moves equipment weighing up to 50 pounds throughout office locations.
  • Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
  • Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and details with accuracy.
  • Some travel may be necessary in or outside the contiguous United States including travel to the various observatory sites (Arizona, Chile and Hawai`i).
  • Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet)

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required by personnel so classified. This Institute promotes Equal Employment Opportunity workplace that includes reasonable accommodations to otherwise qualified, disabled applicants and employees.
Work Environment:
This position operates in a professional office environment handling and operating a variety of tools and machinery. Regularly works in outside conditions that may include inclement weather, heat, and humidity. This role may involve work during non-standard business hours, including overnight. The work environment may have exposure to loud sounds and involves working in close proximity to others.
Salary Range:
$77,377.10 - $98,000. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.
The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.
AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/benefits-by-location/
How to Apply
Apply by May 20, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname.
Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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